Mumbai Masala: Story Structures of India and the US
Tentative Program Dates
July 18 - August 16, 2025
Program Overview
This 4 week program offers students the chance to compare narrative structures of scripts around the world, with a particular focus on Indian cinema and Indian storytelling tradition. In partnership with Whistling Woods International, students will be paired into groups to learn about Eastern and Western story styles and work together to produce a short film script that encompasses both styles simultaneously. All the while, students will use the city of Mumbai as their cultural backdrop to inform their writing.
Program Eligibility & Admission
- Recommended for Visual and Media Arts majors and Writing, Literature and Publishing majors, but open to all majors and minors.
Course Information
All students enroll in the following course option:
- VM 220 - Writing the Short Subject
Academic Highlights
- Learn about US and Indian narrative structures and what informs both approaches
- Partner with a Whistling Woods student to produce a 5-10 minute short film script
- Gain experience in a true intercultural and international writers’ room informed by instructors from both the US and India
Cultural Highlights
- Live within the famous Film City outside of Mumbai, home to Whistling Woods International and many studio lots
- Take a three-day excursion to Delhi and Agra and experience the Taj Mahal
- Tour the vibrant spice and food markets of Mumbai
- Engage socially with local college students studying cinema in the Indian context
Costs & Inclusions
Program Fee: TBD
Included in Program Fee
- Tuition (4 credits)
- Welcome and Farewell Meals
- Registration Fee
- Shared accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Included excursions and guest speakers
Not included in Program Fee
- Round-trip airfare
- Most meals and incidental expenses
- Passports and Visas
- Immunizations